St Paul’s Church of England VC Junior School in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on October 3 and 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment, where the values of respect, empathy, fairness, love, encouragement, and trust are emphasized. These values help to set high expectations for pupils' behavior and learning, which they understand and adhere to well. The curriculum is designed to engage and motivate students, fostering a positive attitude towards learning.
Pupils express a strong sense of safety and well-being at the school, demonstrating politeness and courtesy in their interactions. They exhibit good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school premises, forming strong relationships with staff. Parents and carers commend the school for the care and attention provided to their children, appreciating the supportive communication from the staff.
The school prioritizes personal development within its curriculum, offering a variety of experiences that enhance learning. Pupils enjoy a range of after-school activities and express that there is something available for everyone. They participate in local visits, sporting competitions, and welcome visitors to the school. Opportunities for responsibility, such as being school council representatives or house captains, are valued by the pupils. They demonstrate an understanding of diversity and the importance of respecting others, which is supported by a curriculum that fosters resilience, confidence, and self-esteem.
The school has high expectations for all pupils and has taken decisive action to improve outcomes at key stage two. The curriculum in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science has been revised to ensure that it meets the needs of pupils from Year 3 to Year 6. This careful design allows pupils to confidently discuss and recall their learning across various subjects. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and communicate important information clearly. However, there are instances where assessment practices do not effectively identify gaps in pupils' understanding, which can lead to some pupils not fully building on their prior knowledge.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with tailored support for those who struggle. The reading program is well-structured, ensuring that pupils practice with appropriate materials. This approach has fostered a love of reading among pupils, who engage enthusiastically with a diverse range of authors and genres. The mathematics curriculum has also been redesigned to introduce concepts gradually, helping pupils grasp more complex ideas confidently.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same curriculum as their peers. Additional support is well-targeted to meet individual needs, allowing these pupils to succeed and build their knowledge effectively.
Pupils' personal development is a notable strength, with numerous opportunities to explore their interests and talents. They demonstrate a good understanding of British values and the importance of physical and mental health. Engagement in sports and charitable activities further contributes to their character development.
Governors are well-informed about the school and its community, maintaining an accurate view of its work and supporting staff development. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school needs to enhance the use of assessment across all subjects to better identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding.
